Christmas Candlelight Service
Our annual Christmas Candlelight Service brings comfort to those left behind as we gather to remember our loved ones at a tough time of year.
Candlelight Remembrance Service
Our third Candlelight Remembrance Service took place on 1 December 2024.
Like the year before, numbers started to grow, and soon we saw over 250 fans expressing an interest to attend the service, led by Fr Marc.
There was no better venue than the Sunderland Minster, and we are sincerely grateful to all concerned for allowing us to hold our third annual service in such a magnificent venue.
Our Candlelight Remembrance Service
A Growing Tribute of Light and Love Each year, as the festive season approaches, the Heaven Branch gathers for a tradition that brings hope and comfort at a time that can be especially difficult for many: our annual Christmas Candlelight Remembrance Service.
What began in 2022 with just 50 of us standing outside the Stadium of Light — candles in hand, music playing softly, and hot chocolate warming our fingers — quickly became a cherished moment of connection and care.
The following year, over 150 people joined, sharing in the light with refreshments, a live band, and quiet reflection. In 2023, as our numbers rose, the need to expand led us to the serene setting of Sunderland Minster.
There, more than 250 attendees gathered for an evening of gentle remembrance, uplifted by a children’s choir and moving words from speakers within the Sunderland AFC community. With the warmth of refreshments and the glow of candlelight, we honoured those no longer with us in a space that offered both comfort and celebration
Our Remembrance Service, led by Fr Marc
Each year, the service is lovingly led by Father Marc, familiar to many through the Netflix series Sunderland Till I Die.
His presence brings spiritual depth and reassurance, helping guide us through an emotional yet heartening experience. This service is more than an event — it’s a growing tradition of togetherness and healing. In the quiet glow of Christmas lights, we come together not only to remember but to lift one another up.
Year by year, we build something stronger: a shared legacy of love, unity, and light.